Thinking of buying '80 240D, I know nothing! - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

ktang · #1 11-11-2002, 12:00 AM

Hi,

I found a 1980 240D for sale here ($500), it needs a radiator before it can be started...any suggestions where to find a used/cheap new one? I will be doing the work myself...I have been working on SAABs and a Fiat, so I don't anticipate too much difficulty (cringe), I think it is also missing its resevior..any pictures of engine bay for 80 240D? All the electrics work...flawless exterior...fresh paint/body work, apparently it was rusty, but the previous owner (deceased) really made it look nice, but I think skipped the under body rust problems, so it may have some structural rust problems. At the moment, I am just interested in getting it running for the family member...how do I do it? Radiator suggestions...oh, and the car has prolly been sitting for 2 years...what may have gone foul in this time? I KNOW NOTHING about BENZs and diesels..should I walk away? It has 245k or so in it..and it is a 4spd...interior is really nice too, rip in driver's seat that's all...

Please, any advice is welcome!!!

Thanks,
-Kurt

#2 11-11-2002, 08:26 AM

There's no radiator reservoir on the 80 240D.

Radiators available everywhere--junk yards. Or new. Try "Fastlane" on this website. or Rusty at www.mbz.org.

My main concern would be what happened to the engine when the radiator blew up. These are pretty bullet-proof engines, but you can ruin them if you try hard enough.

P.E.Haiges · #3 11-11-2002, 10:14 AM

Ktang,

If you have the original radiator, you can get it recored at a local radiator shop for about $125. That would be equivalent to a new radiator at lower cost.

If you get one at a junkyard, you should have it cleaned and tested at local radiator shop.

Four speed transmission: Manual or automatic?

One question, why does it need a radiator to be started? You should see how it starts and runs before you buy it. Just don't run it for more than 2 minutes. The best test of a Diesel enging is how it starts and runs cold.

I would pump the manual primer pump vigorusly before trying to start the enging so the fuel injection pump has fuel in it. If engine is in good running condition,it should start easily.

P E H